Is Stress Affecting Your Teeth? | The Dacula Dentist

Stress is a part of all of our lives and controlling stress can be challenging. Most of us know that stress impacts our bodies negatively, including blood pressure, headaches, backaches and more.  But did you know if can harm your teeth and gums as well?

Stress impedes our immune’s systems ability to fight off harmful health conditions and compels us to take on unhealthy habits. When stress starts taking it’s toll on your dental health, you may begin to notice canker sores and teeth grinding. Both of which are bad for your oral health, especially teeth grinding with can lead to a painful condition called TMJ.  You may also see an increase in your cravings for sugary treats, junk food and soda. These foods can reek havoc on your teeth, leading to cavities and enamel erosion. Some even start smoking to deal with stress, which leads to all kinds of medical problems, including mouth and throat cancer.

It is important to be aware of how stress levels can negatively impact your dental health.  Here are few things you can do to help combat these effects:

• Try some new stress reducing activities, including meditation, exercise and nature walks.
• Seek counseling for serious stressors like marital problems, workplace issues, loss of a loved one and major life changing events.
• Talk to your dentist about solutions. You may be able to use a mouth guard or change your oral care regimen at home to defend against tooth decay and oral disease.

If you would like to learn even more about how to care for your teeth, contact us. We believe your emotional and physical health are directly related and work with our patients to ensure they have the best dental health possible.

The Best Dacula Dentist... Contact Us Today To Learn Even More
Kurz Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
P:  770-904-6088
E: Smiles@KurzFamilyDentistry.com
Visit Us Online At www.KurzFamilyDentistry.com

Dental Coverage For Seniors | The Dacula Dentist

Proper dental care is a major concern for seniors.  From cleaning and extractions to dentures and implants, dental costs can really impact seniors. In many cases seniors will forgo getting much needed dental work  because they cannot afford it. Medicare and Medicaid often offer minimal to no coverage for dental care.  So many seniors are on fixed incomes and simply cannot cover the additional bills that would come along with their dental care.

So what is a senior to do?  Private insurance plans can be costly, so that may not be  feasible for many senior citizens.   There are a few options that seniors may want to explore for affordable dental care:

- Look for dental offices that offer special rates for seniors.

- Contact your local dental  college to see if they offer dental care performed by students at a reduced rate.

- Determine your eligibility for dental discount programs, which can sometimes save you up to 50% on dental services.

Seniors getting the dental care they need is of vital importance.  Having healthy teeth and gums are essential to your overall health.  We pride ourselves on offering affordable dental care and flexible payment options. If you are in need of dental care, call us today to schedule an appointment.

The Best Dacula Dentist... Contact Us Today To Learn Even More
Kurz Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
P:  770-904-6088
E: Smiles@KurzFamilyDentistry.com
Visit Us Online At www.KurzFamilyDentistry.com

Are Parents Making Their Children Afraid Of The Dentist? | The Dacula Dentist

So many children are petrified of going to the dentist, but why? Most parents just assume it's normal or a natural reaction, but there may be growing evidence that it is much more often a learned behavior. So who is teaching their kids to be so afraid of the dentist? It’s usually their parents. 

According to Medical News today, “A new study conducted by scientists at the Rey Juan Carlos University of Madrid highlights the important role that parents play in the transmission of dentist fear in their family. “ Former studies in this area had already seen a direct correlation between parental fear levels and the fear levels of their children. 

In the International Journal of Pediatric Dentistry, the study analyzed 183 children between 7 and 12 years and their parents. The results were in line with previous studies which found that fear levels amongst fathers, mothers and children are interlinked, with the key factor being the father.  Fathers appear to have an increased influence over whether a child deems a situation to be fearful or anxiety causing. 

So as parents, our example is crucial when it comes to visiting the dentist. If the parents, especially the father, seem to be calm, relaxed and appreciative when it comes to visiting the dentist, it will tremendously help your kids relax and take their dental visits in stride.  In short, we truly have to lead by example.

As a family dental office, we understand the importance of pediatric dental care. We build relationships of comfort and trust with children so they can come to enjoy visiting the dentist.  Feel free to contact us if you have questions or need to schedule a family dental appointment. We want to be your dentist!

The Best Dacula Dentist... Contact Us Today To Learn Even More
Kurz Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
P: 770-904-6088
E: Smiles@KurzFamilyDentistry.com
Visit Us Online At www.KurzFamilyDentistry.com

The Good, Bad And Ugly When It Comes To Toothpaste | The Dacula Dentist

We all know toothpaste is a must have item. We all want clean and healthy teeth and toothpaste plays a big part in that.  The good thing is that most toothpaste is created to protect teeth, prevent decay and increase whiteness.  The bad part is trying to figure out which toothpaste is right for you and which actually might be harmful.

If you have sensitive teeth, periodontal disease or bad breath concerns you may want to look at specialty toothpastes, but you still do not want to compromise protecting your teeth.  So how do you choose? Talking to your dentist about your specific concerns is a good first step. Also, read the labels, dental reviews and ingredients for your current toothpaste as well as other toothpastes you are considering switching to.

Another ugly factor about toothpaste that isn’t often brought up is the abrasiveness of its cleaning particles.  Toothpastes that are too abrasive can actually damage your teeth by removing vital enamel from your teeth.  Tooth enamel does not regenerate itself so it is important that we preserve the enamel we have. 

If you have additional questions about selecting the right toothpaste,  feel free to contact us. Using the right toothpaste for you and your family is important.  Your dental health and preventing decay and disease is our priority.  We want to be your dentist!

The Best Dacula Dentist... Contact Us Today To Learn Even More
Kurz Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
P: 770-904-6088
E: Smiles@KurzFamilyDentistry.com
Visit Us Online At www.KurzFamilyDentistry.com